The perks of purchasing — Tax breaks for homeowners

Paying taxes is one of the most complicated duties that today’s homeowners face. From endless forms and complex deductions to adjusted interest rates and more — there are countless rules to govern how homeowners pay their share. What that in … Read more

Consider the down payment — Secrets, myths, and misconceptions

Agents and mortgage brokers alike understand that one of the biggest hurdles facing their clients is the financial burden of a down payment. Though navigating the house hunt and sourcing an affordable mortgage are key, affording a down payment looms … Read more

4 Must-ask questions when buying a home

Buying a home is the investment of a lifetime. To safeguard this investment, you’ll need to do your homework and go beyond the standard, surface-level questions that only get you so far. To understand a home’s true viability, you’ll need … Read more

Real estate designations — What you need to know

The real estate industry is laden with opportunities for professionals within the field to continue their education for a lifetime. In fact, any agent identifying as a professional REALTOR®, has committed to abide by a very strict Code of Ethics, … Read more

All about appraisals — What you need to know

There’s no disputing that appraisals carry a lot of weight when it comes to real estate. In general terms, an appraisal is the estimate of a property’s market value, in comparison to similar properties in the area. This estimate is … Read more

Identifying wants vs. needs — A step-by-step guide

When you’re ready to look for your next home, it is smart to provide your REALTOR® with a comprehensive overview of what you want, along with what you need. The things you want in a home will be the easier … Read more

New in town? Tap into your REALTOR’S® rolodex

There are few professionals who will know more about their community than real estate agents. Even if your agent doesn’t happen to live in the exact location where you’ve purchased a home, there is a good chance that you have … Read more

Buyer beware — Common pitfalls to avoid when purchasing a home

Buying a home is not only a large financial investment, it’s also a significant emotional investment. With so much at stake, the process deserves your undivided attention. To ensure that buying a home goes as smoothly as possible, it’s wise … Read more

FHA, Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac — The basics of government mortgage loans

When it comes time to buy a home, the process of determining which loan is best for you can feel overwhelming. There are many loan options available, some of which are known as government loans, or government-backed loans. Many buyers … Read more

Initial Investment — 7 Things You Need to Know Before You Invest in Real Estate

If you’re considering investing in real estate, rest assured you’re in good company. Millions of Americans have successfully done so in the past, and countless others continue to do so each year. However, that’s not to say that being successful … Read more